Universal salt iodization and sodium intake reduction: compatible, cost-effective strategies of great public health benefit

Overview

This brief outlines why and how policies for USI to eliminate IDD and the reduction of dietary sodium intake to prevent and control raised blood pressure – and, in turn, the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) – are compatible and cost-effective. It calls upon policymakers, academics and programme managers to bring together the salt fortification and sodium reduction communities to develop and implement double-duty sodium-related policies and actions, which have the potential to deliver significant public health benefit.